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The Reinaldo Rueda’s payroll for the La Roja microcycle It caused multiple sensations to Sebastián Pereira, Everton defender. The 21-year-old footballer, who appears on the list released this Friday, reacted with surprise: “At first I thought they were joking me,” he says in dialogue with AS. Later, when he saw the photograph of the National Team on social networks, he felt a mixture of joy and sadness. Why? The player who wins a space in Chilean soccer agrees to tell details of his life. A history of overcoming that today has it in the Red.
“I found out today. I had a problem with the car, because I had a flat tire. I went to buy a spare part and Alex Ibacache called me congratulating me. I laughed and didn’t take his weight. I said: ‘I must be hesitating’ (laughs). He sent me the photo and it took me by surprise. I really wasn’t expecting it, because they hadn’t told me anything. It is a reward for effort, for work, ”says Sebastián Pereira, who has played 15 games as a professional. His debut was in June 2018 and This 2020 he has played nine games as a starter.
– What was the first thing you did when you confirmed the summons?
– I called my mother, who has been in poor health. This served him well to lift his spirits. It makes her happy, because she worked hard with my dad, who is now in heaven supporting me. My brothers always supported me the same. I feel privileged to have this family. I admit that after a while, it also made me very sad, because with my dad I watched soccer, and we shared the good and bad news together. He passed away on October 3, 2019, now he will be one year old. I dedicate it to him. That he is not here now, when I was nominated, makes me sad. But I know he’s supporting me. He sure is proud, and giving me strength to take all this in the best way.
– Are you excited about this summons?
– At Everton they gave me confidence and I think I have made the best of it. Now I am going to live another beautiful experience, something new for me. I was on a U20 microcycle three years ago, but it’s not the same. I will take it as an experience and with peace of mind. I will enjoy it because this is not given to just anyone. I really want to learn everything that the teacher (Reinaldo Rueda) can give me.
– When did you get to Everton?
– I’m from Valparaíso, from Cerro San Juan Dios. I was at Santiago Wanderers from 10 to 12 years old. In 2012 I came to Everton. As was? In those days I knew they did tests on the first Tuesday of every month. So I went in October with my dad on the bus, we talked to the teacher (Ilic Reyes) and he told me that they weren’t doing tests, but that he was going to let me train so as not to miss the trip. We played soccer with some kids my age, and he asked me to keep seeing me. He was evaluating me until another year, until he enrolled me. From the Sub 13 I could always play. I have lived beautiful moments, with great teachers. I’ve learned a lot from everyone.
Pereira controls the ball during a match.
ANDRES PINA / PHOTOSPORT
– Who are your idols?
– I always admired Carles Puyol, for his brave game and because he gave life to each ball. I also like Gary (Medel) for his life story, character and aggressiveness. He is a reference. Now I have Cristián Suárez by my side, who is one of the best centers in Chilean football. I have learned a lot from him. He has supported me a lot and I thank him, because he gives me confidence. He just wrote to me, and told me that I had to continue in the same way, because this is the beginning.
– In a future payroll I could play with Medel. Can you imagine it?
– It would be a dream to play with him. But dreams are to be fulfilled. I am going to go to this microcycle with my feet on the ground, to continue working as I am doing. If I continue like this, things will come alone.
– Do you dream of playing in a particular league?
– I have never thought of a specific team, but I am clear that I would like to burn stages. Hopefully later I can get to one of the big three, then go to Argentina or Brazil, and obviously I dream of reaching Europe. Like everyone. But it is a long-term goal. My current goal is to play in Everton the most games left of the year, do it well and that we can rebound. There is a good team and I know we will make it.
